Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast, Les Éléphants, boasted one of Africa's greatest-ever generations in the 2000s, led by the iconic Didier Drogba. Two-time African champions, the Ivorians combine power and skill, and Drogba is even credited with helping pause his country's civil war through football's unifying force.

Ivory Coast qualified for three consecutive World Cups, in 2006, 2010, and 2014, during their golden generation, but were repeatedly undone by brutally difficult draws and exited in the group stage each time. In 2014 they came within minutes of advancing before a late penalty conceded against Greece ended their hopes. Despite the immense talent of Drogba, Yaya Touré, and Kolo Touré, a World Cup knockout appearance eluded them. The Elephants return to the global stage in 2026.